United States Navy Physical Readiness Test

A Physical Readiness Test, also known as a Physical Fitness Assessment, or PFA, is conducted by the United States Navy to determine the physical fitness of their sailors.

Standard testing

The PFA includes a 1.5-mile run (or alternate cardio options of a 12-minute stationary bike ride, 12-minute elliptical, or a 500 yd or 450 m swim), pushups, a sit and reach, and situps

PFA scores from lowest to highest are as follows: probationary, satisfactory, good, excellent, outstanding, and maximum.

Scores for the run, the pushups, and the situps are determined by age, sex, and time. The sit and reach merely needs to be completed but is not an event which could fail a member.

Other branches of the DoD have similar standards.

Elite units

Most branches of the US military use modified, enhanced tests of the regular tests of physical stamina and performance as minimum requirements for applicants to special or elite programs. Some of these programs are SEAL, SWCC, Navy Diver, EOD, and other Special Operations Forces. These tests usually include extra components so that running, swimming, and pullups are all assessed in addition to situps, pushups, and the cardiovascular portion. In some cases pushups techniques and swim strokes may be particular to a certain group, including "diver (triceps) pushups", "combat sidestroke" swim strokes done in full uniform with boots by SEAL and SWCC applicants, and strictly monitored pull-up technique. Within these communities enhanced tests may be given in place of the regular tests, deriving and reporting the data needed for the minimum requirements of the service and maintaining additional data such as swim and pullup data to meet the requirements of their special program.

External links

• US Navy Physical Fitness Test Standards